Venasque
12km south east of Carpentras via the D4.
Discover Venasque, a splendid village in the Vaucluse
The picturesque town of Venasque owes its name, of Celtic-Ligurian etymology, to its location perched on a rocky outcrop. This name is also the origin of the Comtat Venaissin, the name of the region. Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Venasque overlooks the Nesque Valley and the ancient Roman road leading to Apt. This historic village is famous for its impressive medieval heritage.
A charming medieval village
Protected since ancient times, the hilltop village of Venasque has preserved the traces of its history in its heritage.
The French Historical Monuments authority has classified its beautiful baptistery, which has made the village famous. It is one of the oldest religious buildings in the Vaucluse region. It dates from the late 6th or early 7th century, was remodeled in the 11th and 13th centuries, and then restored in the 19th century under the impetus of the famous Prosper Mérimée.
Church and Esplanade des Tours
Its 12th-century church, Notre Dame de Venasque, is typical of Provençal Romanesque art, and its three Saracen towers are also listed (the tallest is 18 m high). These towers are the only late ramparts known to date in Vaucluse, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful late Romanesque enclosures preserved in southern France.
From the Esplanade des Tours, you can enjoy a superb panorama of the Dentelles de Montmirail, the Château du Barroux and, opposite, Mont Ventoux (1,909 m).
A village that appeals to artists
This respect for the past has given Venasque an almost austere charm due to its authenticity, with houses rebuilt as they once were. In the heart of the village, as you stroll through its narrow streets, you will appreciate a special atmosphere, tinged with the sweetness of life.
Lovers of old buildings will be truly charmed, as were a dozen painters and artists who have opened their studios in the village. Visiting Venasque is a real pleasure!
Ramparts and chapels
Around the village, you will notice the remains of the ramparts that once surrounded it. There are also some beautiful chapels to discover in the countryside, providing an excellent excuse for pleasant walks among the scrubland and cherry trees.
From the end of March onwards, you can admire its vast orchards in bloom. The red diamond of Provence: cherries certified since 1978 under the “Monts de Venasque” appellation.
What to see
9th century baptistry.
Roman church Notre Dame.
The Saracen towers. St Siffrein chapel.
Priory of St Pierre les Thermes.
Leisure activities
Hiking, horse-riding, tennis and climbing.
Festival from July 14-17.
Cultural events, painting classes.
Arts and crafts : watercolours, sculpture, pottery...
Hotels
2 steps from Mont Ventoux, quiet, nice little hotel, rooms 1 to 4 pers.
Restaurant, nice terrace. Pool, garden. Closed garage.
Very good value for money
Accomodations
Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
Vacation rentals.
Your questions about the charming village of Venasque
You have sent us several questions about Venasque. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions, to inform all our readers.
What is the history of Venasque?
The history of Venasque dates back to the Merovingian period, when the bishops of Carpentras took refuge here between the 6th and 9th centuries. This ancient medieval city gave its name to the Comtat Venaissin, a papal territory from 1274 to 1791. The three Saracen towers and ramparts date back to the 4th century and are remarkable historical features. Christian monuments bear witness to this past: the 6th-century baptistery and the 13th-century Notre-Dame church are listed as Historic Monuments.
Where is Venasque located?
Venasque is located in the department of Vaucluse, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The village is situated on a rocky spur overlooking the Nesque valley, at the foot of Mont Ventoux. It is 7 miles from Carpentras and the area is part of the Mont Ventoux Regional Nature Park.
Any good restaurants in Venasque?
Les Remparts is the village's premier restaurant, offering views of the valley. The chef serves Provençal cuisine made with local produce, with several menus available starting at €21. The cuisine showcases regional producers in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The service is attentive and the panoramic terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset.
What activities are there to do in Venasque?
A visit to the baptistery and Notre-Dame church will immerse you in the village's history. Stroll through the narrow streets to discover the stone houses and fountains. Hiking is very popular, with several trails leading to the Monts de Vaucluse and the Jouvenal plateau. Rock climbing attracts climbers from all over the world, with nearly 700 equipped routes in the Quinsan and Saint-Pierre areas. Donkey rides are offered by a local farm for an original way to explore the surrounding area. Nature tourism also offers access to the nearby Nesque Gorges.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Malemort du Comtat (5 km), Saint Didier (6 km) and Méthamis (12 km).